We’ve all been there before. You buy some nice fresh beef from the grocery store – maybe some juicy steaks, ground beef for burgers, or a roast You take it home, stick it in the fridge, and then sometime later wonder – is this beef still good to eat? How long does fresh beef last in the fridge anyway?
It’s a common question many of us have asked ourselves at some point. And there’s some confusion around the right answer. Some people say 3 days, others say 5 days, and your shady roommate swears it’s still good for 2 weeks (don’t listen to your shady roommate on this one).
The truth is that the shelf life of fresh beef depends on a few factors. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to maximize the storage time and freshness of beef in your fridge. I’ll cover:
- How long different cuts and types of beef last in the fridge
- Tips to extend the shelf life of fresh beef
- How to tell when beef has gone bad
- Safe handling guidelines for raw beef
Let’s get into it! Here’s the complete guide on how long fresh beef lasts in the fridge and how to make the most of the beef you buy.
How Long Does Fresh Beef Last Refrigerated?
The shelf life of fresh beef depends on a few factors:
- Type of beef (steaks, roasts, ground beef etc)
- Packaging method (vacuum sealed, butcher paper, styrofoam tray)
- Temperature of the fridge
Here are some general guidelines for how long different cuts and types of raw beef will last refrigerated:
- Steaks – 3 to 5 days
- Roasts – 3 to 5 days
- Ground beef – 1 to 2 days
- Organ meats like liver – 1 to 2 days
So steaks roasts and other larger cuts of beef will typically last 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Ground beef and organ meats have a shorter shelf life around just 1 to 2 days.
The fridge temperature plays a role too. Beef will last longer if your fridge is set right at 40°F (4°C) or below. Any warmer and bacteria can multiply faster, shortening the shelf life.
Let’s look at some specific types of beef and how to maximize their freshness.
Raw Steaks and Roasts
For thicker cuts like steaks and roasts, you can expect a 3 to 5 day shelf life in the fridge. Sirloin steak, ribeye, T-bone, tenderloin, roasts – these will all last about the same time.
If the beef is vacuum sealed by the grocery store or butcher, it can extend the shelf life 1 to 2 extra days. The airtight vacuum seal prevents oxygen from reaching the meat and slowing bacteria growth.
If the beef wasn’t vacuum sealed, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap can have a similar effect.
Raw Ground Beef
Raw ground beef has a shorter fridge life of just 1 to 2 days. This is because ground beef has more surface area exposed to air and bacteria.
Keep ground beef on the bottom shelf of the fridge where temperatures are coldest. Make sure to use it by 1 to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
To extend the shelf life of ground beef, you can break it into smaller portions and tightly wrap in plastic wrap. This limits air exposure and slows down the growth of harmful bacteria.
Raw Beef Organs
Beef organs like liver, tongue, kidneys, and heart are highly perishable. Use them within 1 to 2 days.
As with ground beef, seal liver or other organs in smaller airtight portions to extend the freshness by a day or two. But don’t go longer than 2 days refrigerated.
Tips to Extend the Life of Fresh Beef
Here are some top tips to maximize how long your fresh beef lasts in the fridge:
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Store beef on the bottom shelf. The bottom shelves of the fridge are the coldest, so keep raw beef down there.
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Separate beef from other foods. Don’t let raw meat juices drip onto other foods and contaminate them. Keep beef sealed in plastic bags or containers.
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Limit air exposure. Cover beef tightly in plastic wrap, bags, or airtight containers. Oxygen speeds up bacteria growth.
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Portion ground beef. Break bulk ground beef into smaller portions you’ll use within 1-2 days. Less surface area exposed means longer freshness.
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Freeze for longer storage. Beef that you won’t use within 3-5 days can be safely frozen for 4-12 months. Portion beef before freezing if needed.
Following these best practices will ensure you maximize the shelf life of the beef you buy.
How to Tell When Beef Has Gone Bad
Beef can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli if it goes bad. Here are some signs that indicate your beef has spoiled and should be thrown out:
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Change in color: Fresh beef is red or purple. Once it turns brown or gray, it’s gone bad.
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Dull, slimy texture: The beef feels sticky, tacky, or slimy.
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Off odor: Raw beef has a slight iron/blood smell. If it smells rotten or ammonia-like, toss it.
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Mold: Mold appearing anywhere on the beef is a sure sign it’s spoiled.
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Discoloration: Patches of green, blue, yellow, or black indicate dangerous mold.
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Weird bubbles: Bubbles forming inside the packaging is a sign gases are being produced by microbes.
When inspecting beef, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you notice any of these red flags, throw away the beef right away.
Safe Handling Guidelines for Raw Beef
To prevent foodborne illness when working with raw beef, follow these safe handling guidelines:
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Wash hands thoroughly with soap before and after handling raw beef.
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Avoid cross-contamination. Keep beef separate from other foods. Don’t use the same cutting board or utensils.
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Cook to proper temperatures. Use a food thermometer to ensure ground beef reaches 160°F and steaks reach 145°F.
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Chill promptly. Refrigerate or freeze beef right after buying or using. Don’t leave at room temperature more than 2 hours total.
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Thaw safely. Thaw frozen beef in the fridge, cold water, or the microwave – never at room temperature.
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Marinate in the fridge. Always marinate beef in a covered dish in the fridge, not on the counter.
Following basic food safety rules will protect you and others from potential illness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions about how long beef lasts? Here are answers to some common questions about raw beef shelf life.
How long does unopened beef last in the fridge?
Unopened fresh beef still sealed in the original packaging will last 3 to 5 days if kept at 40°F or below. For ground beef, use by 1 to 2 days. Always check for expiration dates on pre-packaged beef.
Can you freeze beef to extend the shelf life?
Yes, freezing is the best way to extend beef’s shelf life long-term. Steaks and roasts last 4-12 months in a 0°F freezer. Ground beef keeps for 3-4 months frozen. Thaw frozen beef safely before using.
Does cooking beef kill bacteria?
Proper cooking kills any harmful bacteria like E. coli that may be on raw beef. Always cook beef thoroughly to the minimum safe internal temperatures. Whole cuts should reach at least 145°F and ground beef 160°F.
Can you eat beef that smells a little funny?
No, it’s risky to eat beef with an off or sour odor. Beef should have a fresh, iron-like red meat smell. Any rancid, ammonia-like or rotten smell means the beef has spoiled. When in doubt, throw it out.
How do you know when ground beef has gone bad?
Signs ground beef has spoiled include a change in color to brown or gray, slimy or sticky texture, sour odor, and mold or discoloration. Cooked ground beef only lasts 1-2 days in the fridge before bacteria becomes dangerous.
The Takeaway
Getting the most mileage out of the beef you buy comes down to proper storage and handling. Follow the fridge life guidelines for different cuts and types of beef. Freeze beef you won’t use within 3-5 days. And learn the signs of spoiled beef so you don’t take risks with your health.
With these tips, you can feel confident knowing exactly how long that juicy steak or fresh burger meat will stay fresh in your fridge. No more wondering or guessing! Now get out there and enjoy beef at its best.